North Valley family battling cancer together

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- Nevin Shoker was living in Los Angeles for about five years before, suddenly, after months of feeling sick, he was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma in January.

Nevin began documenting his journey on social media as he sought treatment at Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center in Merced.

From getting chemotherapy to the chemo causing his hair to shed, he shared it all.

"I went through six months of chemotherapy, immunotherapy as well. I've had two surgeries; I still have to get one more surgery done. I still have a chest port placed in, so it's been a roller coaster of emotions," said Nevin.

Then finally -- victory.

But not long after he finished his treatment, the unimaginable happened.

"It was like a punch to the gut 'cause I rang the bell, I thought it was all over," said Nevin.

His mom, Laxmi Shoker, the one sitting next to him during his chemotherapy, was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma.

"I said no, this cannot be happening because I've been helping my son the whole year to go through his cancer journey," she said.

Laxmi didn't have any symptoms like her son. She says her blood work led doctors to her diagnosis.

Together, the two are navigating through their cancer journey.

"I will fight; I will take it. I believe in God. If God is with me, everything will be fine," said Laxmi.

As they continued to share on social media, a chance encounter helped shed a bigger light on the mother and son's journey.

Dr. Thomas Fiero met the two when they went into the emergency room.

"It was a powerful moment to be in. We were both kind of surprised because you don't expect that kind of emotion," said Nevin.

Nevin recorded the encounter, sharing it with his followers on social media.

The video went viral, collecting millions of views across social media, helping Nevin share his message of cancer.

Dr. Fiero said showing his emotions is normal for him, especially with the people he cares for.

"I cry with all my patients. So, all my patients are equally important to me," said Dr. Fiero.

Laxmi will have surgery, and after, she plans to do more chemotherapy treatments, but the family is optimistic.

Nevin has plans to spread more about cancer awareness. He said he even hopes to start a support group, and of course, help his mom as she finishes her cancer fight.

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